16/05/2023
Here’s an article that will help you nail a nice catfish in this early spring season.
Springing into spawn
In Ohio, spring means one thing, warmer weather which leads to better fishing. When we’re early spring fishing for catfish we head to the shallows. The shallow water warms up quicker which brings in the big fish pre-spawn just before May and June to feed on the baitfish. That makes it some of the best catfishing anyone can experience in my opinion. During this time of year, the best bait to use is the natural foraging fish they’re eating. Fresh shad, bluegill and cut bait all work great for the catfish because they’ve been feeding on the “shad kill” as we call it. This happens when winter comes to an end and some of the fish die off once the water warms up. The catfish feed off the bottom. Catfish are pretty lazy and don’t have to work very hard or go far without finding food of some sort. Our tactics are as simple as paying attention to the weather and our surroundings based on the body of water we’re on. Always check the direction of the water flow even if you’re bank fishing since the cats are going after your scent trail. Our set ups are basic medium-heavy action spinning rods with 20-40 lb. braid, 2-3 oz. sinkers and we always use circle hooks between 6-10/o. especially when we’re targeting channel cats. The c-hooks allow a great hook up in the side of the fish’s mouth right where you want it every time. This also prevents gut hooking or harming the fish so they can continue flourishing when released. Spring is a perfect time to bank fish for them with the whole family since they’ll be in shallow water. You can throw on a bobber for the kids for some top water action all through summer or put on a glow stick for a fun, visual night bite! Catfish are creatures of habit and best at eating. Once you find the baitfish the catfish will follow. Don’t be afraid to move spots if you aren’t getting any bites. Try freshening up your bait and then move spots if the fish aren’t producing. Ohio has beautiful, plentiful fish populations thanks to local DNR conservation, stocking and catch and release practices followed by fellow anglers. Catfish are some of the biggest sport fish we have and if you put in a little work, they’ll give you a fight at the end of the line that’s worth it every time.
Written by Allison Benoit
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Photo of Gabbie (Gabryella)